With adequate maintenance, your air conditioner can last 15 years or longer. But even the best maintained air conditioner will need to be updated at some point.

When you’re getting started planning for air conditioning installation in Milledgeville and Middle Georgia, we are aware that the expense is number one on your list of questions. The good news is that buying a new air conditioner could be more affordable than you are aware, thanks to rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also receive improved energy efficiency, which will likely pay off over the years through cheaper utility bills.

Here’s what to anticipate when you’re replacing your air conditioner.

When to Replace Your Air Conditioner

Knowing when to repair or replace your air conditioner can be tricky. Here’s what we suggest.

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is past 10 years old. While some could run longer, many air conditioners run for around 15 years with routine maintenance. We suggest planning for air conditioning replacement close to the 10-year age. Even if you install a new one when it’s only a decade old, the U.S. Department of Energy says this tweak could save you 20-40% on cooling bills.
  • You’ve neglected routine maintenance for many years. Similar to a car, your cooling system needs regular air conditioning maintenance. Skipping this crucial service can lead to diminished efficiency, more frequent repairs and even a decreased life span.
  • Your air conditioner has to have frequent or pricey repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is frequently the result of skipping service But as your air conditioner gets older it’s more likely to experience a big malfunction. When repairs are more than half the cost of a new air conditioner, we recommend getting a new one.
  • Your residence is uncomfortable. If your house feels too humid or you’re experiencing hot and cold spots in specific spaces, your air conditioner could be struggling to keep up. This is a sign you need to replace it.
  • Your energy bills are costly. Your air conditioner becomes less efficient as it gets older. Consequently, it may need to run more frequently or longer to keep your home at your desired temp. Newer air conditioners have the most up-to-date energy-efficient technology to keep your home comfortable and energy expenses reasonable.
  • Your air conditioner has R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was replaced before 2010, there’s a good chance it uses Freon. Also known as R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being made because of its detrimental effects on the environment. You can continue to use your air conditioner, but if it were to have a refrigerant leak, repairing that would be extremely expensive. This is because R-22 is only available in limited, recycled quantities.

Repair

  1. Your air conditioner is under 10 years old. If your air conditioner is newer, it’s wisest to repair it.
  2. Repairs are infrequent or economical. The smartest way to stop emergency repairs is to have annual maintenance done. But when repairs are only needed every so often or are reasonable, repair your air conditioner.
  3. Your air conditioner has a valid warranty. Most air conditioners come with a 5- to 10-year limited warranty that often covers the compressor. Your exact warranty length depends on your manufacturer, but it gives valuable protection in the event of a major failure. If your air conditioner is covered by warranty, we advise fixing it.

Air Conditioner Cost

The majority of homeowners spend around $4,631 on a new air conditioner, based on national averages compiled by HomeGuide. Air conditioner cost averages often range from $3,350 to $5,912, but your exact cost {might|could|may] vary.

There are several aspects that affect your total cost, like:

  • The air conditioner model you select, because more energy-efficient ones are pricier.
  • The size your home needs.
  • If you need to put in new ductwork, which can happen if your ductwork is aging or inefficient.

We provide free estimates at Air Concepts of Middle Georgia so you can be confident you’re getting a good deal. And with our wide range of air conditioners, there’s an energy-efficient model that accommodates just about any budget.

Air Conditioner Size

Air conditioner size is essential. A system that’s too little will have difficulty keeping your house cool. And one that’s too large might turn on and off too many times, or short cycle. This behavior can drive up your cooling costs and wear your air conditioner out faster. This could also create temperature inconsistencies and make your residence feel less comfortable.

At Air Concepts of Middle Georgia, our techs have many years of experience in accurately sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your house. The size you need depends on how spacious your residence is, along with a couple other factors. Some of the most typical sizes include:

  • 2 ton, which cools up to 1,000 square feet
  • 3 ton, which cools up to 1,600 square feet
  • 4 ton, which cools up to 1,900 square feet
  • 5 ton, which cools more than 2,000 square feet

Other considerations that can influence air conditioner size are:

  • The temperatures in Milledgeville and Middle Georgia.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows your home has and the style, because large or picture windows may be less efficient.
  • If your home receives more sun or shade.
  • Insulation quality and depth.
  • How many people are in your family.

SEER Ratings

Your air conditioner’s efficiency is tied to its SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. This rating measures how proficiently it consumes electricity to create cooling. The bigger the ranking, the more efficient the air conditioner is.

When you’re buying a new air conditioner, it’s important to know:

  • Older air conditioners are rated around 8-9 SEER.
  • Updated air conditioners start at 13 SEER. Ones installed in the southwest and southeast must be at least 14 SEER due to U.S. Department of Energy mandates. As of 2017, these SEER rating requirements have saved homeowners trillions of dollars.
  • ENERGY STAR®-certified air conditioners begin at 14.5 SEER.
  • Higher SEER-rated air conditioners come with more features to help you save more. These features may involve variable-speed cooling. Instead of running at full speed continuously, these air conditioners can adjust blower speeds based on your cooling needs. This results in quieter and more energy-efficient air conditioning. While an air conditioner with a better SEER rating is typically pricier, it could be eligible for additional rebates. And the energy savings over its life span could help it pay for itself.

Start Your Air Conditioning Installation with Air Concepts of Middle Georgia Now

When you’re preparing for air conditioning replacement, the company who installs it is just as essential as the model you select. Air Concepts of Middle Georgia is one of the most trusted names for air conditioning installation in Milledgeville and Middle Georgia. From helping you select the recommended solution for your residence to going over financing options to professional installation, partnering with us is a breeze. Contact us at 478-200-5689 to begin now!